At one time, aftermarket air conditioning was little more than a bolt-on air mover under the dash-something to smash your knees on. However, time and evolution have caught up with these afterthoughts, making way for a new generation of in-dash air-conditioning systems. The new SureFit GEN IV in-dash climate control system from Vintage Air brings modern A/C, heating, and dehumidification to '69-'70 Mustangs.
Also available for '65-'68 Mustangs, the SureFit GEN IV system adds high-tech thinking to classic Mustang air quality management. It gets cabin temperature and humidity just right because you have control. You get to choose how your Mustang feels inside by sliding controls one way or the other. Even better, no one knows it's there because it utilizes the original heater controls and hides behind the dash without a hint except for cool comfort.
The SureFit GEN IV climate...
The SureFit GEN IV climate control air management system operates with electronic servos for precision performance. The hot water valve is also electronic, designed to operate in synch with the rest of the system. You can use Vintage Air's supplied air outlets or use the factory-style '69-'70 outlets, which makes this a very stealthy package. The complete system retails for approximately $1,300, plus shipping.
Vintage Air gets this result via microprocessor technology and compact electric servos that quietly blend doors and move air for optimum cabin temperature and humidity. There are no vacuum hoses, complicated wiring, or confusion.
| Mustang SureFit GEN IV Systems |
| '67-'68 |
Non-Factory Air |
No. 951168 |
| '67-'68 |
Factory Air |
No. 954168 |
| '69-'70 |
Non-Factory Air |
No. 951170 |
| '69-'70 |
Factory Air |
No. 954170 |
| Note: New GEN IV system coming soon for '65-'66 Mustangs |
Three servos are designed...
Three servos are designed to fine-tune air temperature and flow for air conditioning, heat, or defrost modes.
Microprocessor technology...
Microprocessor technology is why the SureFit GEN IV system works so well, yielding solid reliability and performance.
Vintage Air includes all plumbing...
Vintage Air includes all plumbing with the universal kit. The air handler fits a variety of applications. However, plumbing and brackets adapt this system to '69-'70 Mustangs.
This high-efficiency condenser...
This high-efficiency condenser from Vintage Air makes the most of today's environmentally responsible R-134a refrigerants. Its compact design, coupled with Mustang-specific brackets, enables installation without modifications.
The '69-'70 Mustangs were...
The '69-'70 Mustangs were the first to use a modular bolt-in dashboard. This makes installing the SureFit easier because the dashboard, which is bolted at both ends and supported by brackets, can be removed.
The steering column must also...
The steering column must also be disconnected from the dashboard.
Support brackets are disconnected...
Support brackets are disconnected and the entire dashboard is pulled out. Keep in mind we're working with a '70 Mustang that's undergoing a restoration at Mustangs Etc. The instrument panel has already been removed along with the stereo and other items.
Vintage Air defroster outlets...
Vintage Air defroster outlets are installed first via a single fastener.
The cowl vent intake for the...
The cowl vent intake for the Mustang's original heater is blocked off with this plug using an RTV adhesive/sealer
Vintage Air provides a template...
Vintage Air provides a template so you can accurately drill 1/4-inch mounting holes in the firewall for air handler security.
The mounting bracket on the...
The mounting bracket on the firewall side is installed like this.
Refrigeration and hot water...
Refrigeration and hot water plumbing is next. The insulated line is low-side (low pressure) refrigeration plumbing. Hot water plumbing isn't insulated; it passes through the firewall where the stock heater hose connections are located.
This is the air conditioning's...
This is the air conditioning's refrigeration expansion valve. Always use wrenches on both sides to prevent damage.
Vintage Air supplies o-rings...
Vintage Air supplies o-rings for refrigeration lines, which are green in color. Lube these seals with refrigeration oil right before installation. Seal lubricant must be compatible with the lubrication oil used in the system.....
....You can purchase R-134a...
....You can purchase R-134a compatible refrigeration oil at any refrigeration supply house. Take care not to pinch or damage the seals. Do not overtighten fittings.
Front brackets are bolted...
Front brackets are bolted to the air handler and the unit is ready for installation.
Using the previously drilled...
Using the previously drilled firewall holes, the unit is mounted and secured. It's always good to have a helper on the other side of the firewall to help guide the unit in place.
We like how Vintage Air incorporates...
We like how Vintage Air incorporates as much of the Mustang's original passages as possible to minimize cutting and drilling. Heater hose lines penetrate the firewall in exactly the same spot as factory equipment.
The firewall cover plate is...
The firewall cover plate is prepped with RTV for proper sealing; then it's retained with sheetmetal screws. There are three passages-two for refrigeration lines and one for the compressor clutch lead and hot water solenoid. All are protected with rubber grommets.
The installed air handler...
The installed air handler should look like this.
This is the installed firewall...
This is the installed firewall transition plate. We suggest the use of sheetmetal screws like Ford used, which are secured using a 3/8-inch wrench instead of a common cross-slot screwdriver. Either way, you get a professional look. The hot water valve will be located at the top heater hose position. Our '70 Mustang isn't far enough along yet for heater control valve installation.
The installed Superflow condenser...
The installed Superflow condenser with dryer should look like this. Again, use refrigeration lubricant on those green o-rings and don't overtighten. The condenser and receiver fit perfectly. We're using the factory air-conditioning line passages, which means no modifications or cutting. You can paint or powdercoat the lines to make this package virtually invisible through your grille.
You're going to need the help...
You're going to need the help of a good hydraulic or air-conditioning shop for hose cutting and swaging at the line ends. Measure carefully and give line routing a lot of thought before cutting. Keep it as streamlined as possible. We're using the Ford compressor for this installation because we have a factory 5.0L SEFI engine package, which calls for different fittings than a typical Sanden aftermarket compressor.
This is what you want-a clean,...
This is what you want-a clean, streamlined installation where lines run parallel wherever possible. This is the high-side service port for R-134a refrigerant.
Underdash electrics and defroster...
Underdash electrics and defroster hoses are secured. It's a good idea to use conduit to protect wiring along with zip ties.
The SureFit GEN IV system...
The SureFit GEN IV system is circuit-breaker protected and should get its power from a switched source-ignition "on" only.
Vintage Air eliminates the...
Vintage Air eliminates the Mustang's heater control cables and fascia. Instead, a fresh Vintage Air fascia and variable resistor switches run the GEN IV system.
Here are the variable resistance...
Here are the variable resistance switches (also called rheostats or potentiometers) installed in place of the original control cables.....
....Vintage Air calls them...
....Vintage Air calls them cable converters. They provide easy slide effort without the sound of hissing vacuum servos and switches.
The cool thing about the GEN...
The cool thing about the GEN IV system is adaptability to your Mustang's factory air-conditioning outlets. No one knows it's back there but you until they feel the cold air.